Choosing the right content management system (CMS) is one of the most critical decisions for website owners in 2025. With evolving needs such as accessibility, optimization, and an increasing focus on security, the debate between WordPress and Joomla remains as relevant as ever.
WordPress vs Joomla Debates
Both platforms have their unique strengths: WordPress, a user-friendly blogging platform that powers over 40% of the web, and Joomla, a flexible and robust CMS favoured for its advanced control and built-in features. But as websites grow more complex, many users find themselves revisiting this choice.
This article offers a fresh perspective on the WordPress vs. Joomla debate, going beyond the usual feature comparisons to explore how these platforms align with modern web development trends. Whether you’re a WordPress user seeking alternatives or a newcomer weighing your options, we’ll provide insights to help you make an informed decision.
*For a deeper dive into the technical details check out WordPress vs Joomla: Which One Is Better? to explore further key differences.
The Current CMS Landscape: Why the Debate Matters
In 2025, content management systems (CMS) continue to play a vital role for most websites. From personal blogs to complex membership and e-commerce websites, the choice of a CMS can determine the success, scalability, and security of an online presence. Among the many options available, WordPress and Joomla remain two of the most debated platforms. But why does this debate matter so much today?
A Changing CMS Ecosystem
The CMS ecosystem has evolved significantly over the years. WordPress, the undisputed leader, powers more than 40% of websites globally. Its vast library of plugins and themes and active communities make it a go-to choice for beginners and professionals alike. However, this dominance comes with challenges, including rising costs, increased security risks, and a shift towards a page-builder-style platform with the Gutenberg editor.
On the other hand, Joomla continues to hold its ground as a feature-rich alternative for users who demand greater control and flexibility. Though its market share is smaller, Joomla appeals to a dedicated user base that values its built-in multilingual support, advanced user management capabilities, and robust security features.
As someone who has designed and sold WordPress themes over the last 15 years, I’ve consistently used Joomla for projects where I need more control and flexibility. This very website is built with Joomla!
CMS Market Share in 2025
As of 2025, WordPress dominates the CMS landscape, powering over 43% of websites globally. Joomla accounts for around 3%, maintaining a steady user base despite its smaller footprint. Drupal, another popular CMS, holds approximately 2.2%, catering primarily to large-scale and enterprise projects. Other platforms like Wix and Squarespace are gaining traction, especially among non-technical users, with a combined market share nearing 10%. These figures highlight the competitive nature of the CMS market and the importance of choosing a platform that aligns with specific needs.
The CMS ecosystem has evolved significantly over the years. WordPress, the undisputed leader, powers more than 40% of websites globally. Its intuitive interface, vast library of plugins and themes, and active community make it a go-to choice for beginners and professionals alike. However, this dominance comes with challenges, including rising costs, increased security risks, and a shift towards a page-builder-style platform with the Gutenberg editor.
On the other hand, Joomla continues to hold its ground as a feature-rich alternative for users who demand greater control and flexibility. Though its market share is smaller, Joomla appeals to a dedicated user base that values its built-in multilingual support, advanced user management capabilities, and robust security features.
*These figures are based on recent data compiled by W3Techs, a trusted resource for web technology surveys and market share statistics.
What About Drupal?
For those seeking an even more technical and customizable solution, Drupal is another option worth mentioning. Known for its scalability and robust architecture, Drupal is often chosen for enterprise-level websites, government portals, and other projects requiring extensive custom development. However, its steep learning curve and developer-centric approach make it less accessible for beginners compared to WordPress and Joomla. While Drupal serves a more niche audience, it highlights the diversity of choices within the CMS landscape.
Why People Still Compare WordPress and Joomla
Even with the rise of new platforms like Wix and Squarespace, the WordPress vs. Joomla debate endures because both platforms cater to overlapping, yet distinct, user needs. WordPress thrives on simplicity and extensive customization through plugins, while Joomla is often the choice for those who prioritize control and scalability without heavy reliance on third-party tools.
Philosophies of WordPress and Joomla
Choosing between WordPress and Joomla often comes down to more than just features. The underlying philosophies of these two platforms shape how they approach website creation, management, and customization, offering distinct experiences to their users.
WordPress for Simplicity and Accessibility
At its core, WordPress was designed to make website creation accessible to everyone. With its intuitive interface, vast library of plugins and themes, and an ever-growing community, it embodies the philosophy of simplicity. WordPress prioritizes user-friendliness, allowing individuals with little to no technical experience to build functional, attractive websites.
This simplicity, however, comes with trade-offs. Advanced users may find themselves relying on third-party plugins for features that other CMS platforms, like Joomla, offer natively. While this modularity makes WordPress highly adaptable, it also introduces potential security and compatibility concerns.
Joomla for Control and Customization
Joomla, on the other hand, appeals to users who value control and customization over simplicity. Its philosophy revolves around empowering users to fine-tune their websites without being overly reliant on third-party extensions. From multilingual capabilities to advanced user access controls, Joomla’s native tools provide a robust framework for complex websites.
This level of control does require a steeper learning curve, making Joomla less beginner-friendly. However, for those willing to invest the time, Joomla offers unparalleled flexibility and a sense of ownership that aligns with its community-driven approach.
Philosophy in Practice
The choice between WordPress and Joomla is often a reflection of user priorities:
- Ease vs. Expertise: WordPress simplifies website creation for all, while Joomla caters to those comfortable with technical details.
- Community vs. Independence: WordPress thrives on its massive community and ecosystem, whereas Joomla emphasizes self-reliance through built-in features.
Key Considerations for Modern Websites
When deciding between WordPress and Joomla in 2025, it’s essential to weigh their strengths and weaknesses against the needs of modern websites. Let’s explore the critical aspects that can influence your decision.
Customization Needs
WordPress has an extensive library of plugins and themes that cater to almost every imaginable functionality. This makes it easy to tailor your website without needing advanced technical knowledge. However, the reliance on third-party plugins can lead to compatibility issues and increased maintenance.
Joomla, in contrast, offers many of these capabilities natively; meaning no plugins are needed. From SEO tools to multilingual support, Joomla’s core features minimize the need for external extensions. This built-in flexibility provides a more streamlined and secure approach for users who want greater control over their site’s functionality.
Content Management
For content creators, WordPress’s block editor (Gutenberg) offers a visual, almost drag-and-drop method to build and organize content. It’s ideal for blogs, small businesses, and simpler websites. However, the shift to block-based editing has left some users yearning for the classic editing experience.
Joomla excels in managing complex content structures. Its powerful category and menu systems make it easier to organize large volumes of content. This capability is especially valuable for websites with diverse content needs, such as e-commerce stores, membership sites, and multilingual platforms.
Security
WordPress’s popularity makes it a prime target for hackers, with vulnerabilities often linked to outdated plugins or themes. While security plugins can mitigate risks, the responsibility for securing your site falls heavily on the user.
Joomla provides a strong foundation for security with built-in features like two-factor authentication, customizable permissions, and secure URL structures. While no CMS is immune to threats, Joomla’s architecture and reduced reliance on third-party tools make it inherently more secure out of the box. This is one reason why some WordPress users might switch to Joomla!
Costs and Value
Both WordPress and Joomla are free to download and use, but the costs associated with each platform vary. WordPress users often face ongoing expenses for premium plugins, themes, and managed hosting services. These costs can quickly add up, especially for larger or more complex sites.
Joomla’s extensive native functionality reduces the need for paid extensions, potentially lowering long-term costs. However, advanced customization may require professional developers, adding to the initial setup expenses.
Scalability and Future-Proofing
As businesses grow, their websites must evolve to accommodate new demands. WordPress’s ecosystem provides nearly endless scalability, with plugins for e-commerce, memberships, and more. However, excessive reliance on plugins can impact performance and introduce compatibility challenges.
Joomla’s modular structure and advanced features make it well-suited for scaling without significant overhauls. Whether it’s managing a multilingual website or integrating complex workflows, Joomla provides a stable foundation for growth.
Balancing Your Needs
Ultimately, the best CMS for your modern website depends on your unique priorities:
- If you value ease of use and a vast ecosystem of tools, WordPress is an excellent choice.
- If you need robust control, built-in functionality, and scalability, Joomla is worth considering.
Why Some WordPress Users Are Switching to Joomla in 2025
WordPress has long been the dominant CMS, but recent trends have prompted some users to explore Joomla as an alternative. Let’s examine the key reasons behind this shift and why Joomla is gaining traction among WordPress users.
NOTE: I should mention that originally, WordPress was created to be a "Blogging" CMS platform.
Frustrations with the Gutenberg Editor
Since the introduction of the Gutenberg block editor in WordPress version 5, many users have expressed dissatisfaction with its complexity and departure from the classic editing experience. While Gutenberg aims to modernize WordPress, it has left some users struggling with its workflow and features.
Joomla provides a refreshing alternative with its straightforward TinyMCE editor, which combines familiar usability with advanced options. For users who prefer a traditional approach to content creation, Joomla’s editor can be a major draw.
Rising Costs of WordPress
What begins as a free solution often becomes expensive as WordPress users invest in premium plugins, themes, and managed hosting. Frequent acquisitions of popular plugins by large companies have also driven up costs, leaving users feeling trapped in a cycle of rising expenses.
Joomla’s core includes many features that WordPress users must pay for, such as multilingual support and advanced user management. This reduces the need for costly extensions and provides a more budget-friendly option for many website owners.
Advanced Features Out of the Box
Joomla’s built-in tools for SEO, security, and content management appeal to WordPress users who want more control without relying on third-party solutions. The platform’s flexibility and ability to handle complex site structures make it an attractive option for growing businesses and organizations.
Security Concerns
WordPress’s popularity makes it a frequent target for hackers, especially when users fail to update plugins and themes regularly. Joomla’s strong security features, including two-factor authentication and customizable user permissions, offer peace of mind for those prioritizing website safety.
Community-Driven Development
While WordPress has a massive community, some users feel disconnected due to the platform’s increasingly corporate direction. Joomla’s community-driven development model fosters collaboration and transparency, creating a more inclusive environment for users and developers alike.
Challenges When Transitioning from WordPress to Joomla
Switching from WordPress to Joomla is a significant decision that comes with its own set of challenges. While Joomla offers unique advantages, understanding these obstacles beforehand can help you prepare for a smoother transition.
Learning Curve
One of the most immediate challenges for WordPress users is adapting to Joomla’s interface and structure. Joomla is designed for more advanced customization and control, which can feel overwhelming to those accustomed to WordPress’s simpler dashboard.
Key differences include:
- Terminology: Joomla uses components, modules, and plugins in ways that differ from WordPress’s themes and widgets.
- Interface: Joomla’s administrative area offers more granular options, which may require time to learn effectively.
Migration Difficulties
Migrating a WordPress site to Joomla involves more than copying content. You’ll need to consider:
- Exporting and Importing Content: Moving posts, pages, images, and user data requires tools or manual processes.
- Recreating Layouts: Joomla templates function differently than WordPress themes, so you may need to rebuild your design.
- SEO Preservation: Ensuring that URLs, metadata, and other SEO settings remain intact is crucial to avoid losing search rankings.
Pro Tip: Use migration tools or hire professionals to assist with this process if it seems daunting.
Adjusting to Extensions and Templates
In WordPress, much functionality comes from plugins and themes. Joomla offers similar capabilities through extensions, but the workflow differs:
- Extensions: Joomla’s extensions combine components, modules, and plugins for added functionality.
- Templates: Customizing Joomla templates often involves a different approach compared to WordPress themes, requiring an understanding of Joomla’s templating system.
Pro Tip: Explore Joomla’s extension directory and template marketplace early to understand your options.
Community and Support Differences
While WordPress’s vast community offers endless resources, Joomla’s community is smaller but highly dedicated. Finding specific answers or resources may take more effort if you’re new to Joomla. Luckily, I plan on continuing this website with comprehensive tutorials, including coaching services.
Pro Tip: Join Joomla forums and groups to connect with experienced users who can provide guidance.
Potential for Custom Development
For advanced projects, Joomla’s flexibility often requires custom development. While this is a strength of the platform, it may increase costs and complexity for those unfamiliar with coding.
Pro Tip: Consider working with a Joomla developer to implement complex features or ensure your site performs optimally.
Transitioning from WordPress to Joomla can be a smart move for those seeking greater control and advanced functionality. By understanding these challenges and preparing adequately, you can make the switch with confidence.
Choosing What’s Right for Your Website
Deciding between WordPress and Joomla ultimately comes down to your specific needs, technical skills, and long-term goals. To help guide your choice, consider the following key factors:
Who Should Choose WordPress?
WordPress is an excellent choice if:
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You’re a beginner: Its intuitive interface and vast library of themes and plugins make it easy for newcomers to build a website.
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You prioritize speed and simplicity: Setting up a WordPress site is quick, especially with one-click installations provided by most hosting services.
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You need extensive third-party support: With the largest community of developers, designers, and users, WordPress ensures you’ll always find a plugin, theme, or expert to meet your needs.
Who Should Choose Joomla?
Joomla is the better choice if:
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You need more control: Its robust architecture allows for extensive customization and advanced site management.
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Your website requires multilingual support: Joomla offers built-in tools for managing multi-language sites without the need for third-party plugins.
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You’re building a complex website: Whether it’s an e-commerce store, a membership site, or a directory, Joomla’s flexibility and advanced features are well-suited for intricate projects.
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You prioritize built-in functionality: Joomla’s core includes many features that require plugins in WordPress, reducing the risk of compatibility issues.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Deciding
To make an informed decision, ask yourself:
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What is my level of technical expertise?
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How much customization and control do I need?
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Do I want built-in features or prefer an ecosystem of third-party plugins?
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What are my long-term plans for scalability and growth?
The Right Choice for You
Both WordPress and Joomla have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your unique requirements. WordPress shines for beginners and those seeking simplicity, while Joomla excels for users who need advanced control and scalability.
If you’re still uncertain, consider experimenting with both platforms or consulting with a professional to help guide your decision. No matter which CMS you choose, investing in the right tools and resources will set your website up for long-term success.